A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Marathon or Atlantic City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Atlantic City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Marathon and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Marathon and Atlantic City are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atlantic City and Marathon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Marathon or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Marathon and Atlantic City offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Atlantic City. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Atlantic City is a world class party destination. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, great resorts can be found in both Marathon and Atlantic City.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

In Atlantic City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Marathon is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City More Beautiful?

Marathon is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Marathon is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Marathon is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Atlantic City. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Atlantic City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marathon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marathon than Atlantic City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marathon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Atlantic City.

One day in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Marathon. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Atlantic City, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marathon Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Atlantic City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Marathon or Atlantic City?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Atlantic City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Atlantic City. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is a little warmer than Atlantic City in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

Both Atlantic City and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Atlantic City in the Winter?

Both Atlantic City and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Atlantic City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Atlantic City. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

Marathon is much warmer than Atlantic City in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Marathon